April 2012 Artist of the Month

Our first Artist of the Month for 2012 is a VERY talented artist and active member of the Westchase Artists Society. As Vice President of our group, Harv goes above and beyond in helping with the organization of our group. Harv Berman not only makes art but shares his talent by teaching. We're so lucky to have Harv as a member of the Westchase Artists Society. So without further delay, here's Harv's interview.

Question: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Harve: I graduated from the School of Visual Arts - New York City. I worked as an Assistant Art Director for two Advertising Agencies in NYC, served in the Viet Nam War from 1966-1968. I earned a Masters Degree in Education from the George Washington University, Washington, DC. Worked as a government employee supporting the Special Operations Command where I retired. Finally teaching for USF OLLI Program, teaching Watercolor in the Learning in Retirement Program.

Question: What first made you want to become an artist?

Harve: While at the School of Visual Arts my areas of concentration were in Graphic Arts and Illustration. My constant trips to art museums sparked my interest in the Impressionist Movement which I seem to favor and can be seen in some of my work.

Question: Describe your creative process.

Harve: Working in watercolor - I enjoy the process of laying one color over another to obtain depth within the subject that I am trying to capture. I like to believe that painting is not just what you see but what you make others see.

Question: Favorite books, movies, website, groups:

Harve: I like reading the Dan Brown books because several of the subjects and places that he has written about I have visited, making them more visual. As far as movies - I like action movies that deal with ancient medieval periods.

Question: In ten years I'd like to be...

Still teaching - - I enjoy when people create images that put a smile on their faces - - a sense of accomplishment.

Thanks Harv for the interview! Stay tuned for our next Artist of the Month.